Fear is mounting among international students across the United States as the country prepares for President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House on January 20. With Trump pledging stricter immigration US colleges policy changes , many universities urge students to return early from winter break to avoid potential travel disruptions. Institutions like Cornell University, the University of Southern California (USC), and New York University (NYU) have warned about possible travel bans and visa complications.

Cornell’s Office of Global Learning cautioned students to prepare for delays, referencing the potential reinstatement of Trump’s travel ban targeting countries such as Iran, Syria, and Somalia, with the possibility of new additions like China and India. Similarly, USC advised students to be back in the US colleges policy changes at least a week before the spring semester begins to preempt executive orders that may impact travel and visa processing.

These developments have added uncertainty for the 1.1 million international students enrolled in US colleges during the 2023-24 academic year. Many fear being unable to complete their studies due to abrupt policy changes. “It’s a scary time for international students,” said Pramath Pratap Misra, an NYU graduate from India. Misra’s sentiments echo across campuses, where international students face heightened concerns about their future.

US Colleges Policy Changes and Promises Under Scrutiny

Trump’s campaign promises, including the reinstatement of his controversial travel ban and ideological screening of immigrants, have sparked anxiety among students and faculty alike. During his first term, the travel ban initially targeted predominantly Muslim countries and was later expanded to several African nations. While President Joe Biden rescinded the ban in 2021, Trump has vowed to reintroduce it with broader scope and stricter regulations.

Adding to the unease, Trump pledged to revoke student visas for individuals deemed “radical anti-American or antisemitic.” This statement follows his criticism of pro-Palestinian protests on US campuses and his promise to send Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers to such demonstrations. However, Trump’s promise to “automatically” grant green cards to skilled graduates of US colleges contrasts sharply with his hardline rhetoric. Critics remain skeptical about the feasibility and inclusivity of this proposal, especially after campaign officials suggested it would exclude individuals labeled as public charges or those with perceived ideological biases.

University Efforts to Support Students

Amid these uncertainties, US colleges are taking proactive measures to support their international students. NYU, which hosts the largest number of international students in the country, reassured its community of ongoing monitoring of immigration-related developments. Other institutions, including Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Northeastern University, have issued guidelines to help students avoid disruptions. Many schools are urging students to return well before inauguration day, with some recommending arrival as early as January 6.

Legal experts warn that Trump’s potential policies could significantly restrict opportunities for international students. Stuart Anderson, executive director of the National Foundation for American Policy, noted that the first Trump administration prioritized limiting foreign-born individuals’ entry across all categories. As universities prepare for potential challenges, international students like Gabrielle Balreira Fontenelle Mota of Brazil express apprehension about their future in the US. “The ideological screenings Trump mentioned make me more concerned,” she said, highlighting the growing uncertainty facing students from around the globe.

If you are someone who wants to have a relaxing yet vivid and adventurous fall break. Hold on to your bags tightly because we have made a list of the most amazing places to visit this fall break. In this article, we have listed down some of the most loved places from across the globe as fall break vacation ideas. Along with this, we have given some bonus pointers to help you plan it well for an awesome experience.

How to plan your fall break vacation ideas?

So let’s go rewind a little bit and start from the beginning. So, before going on any vacation, let alone a fall break vacation, there are certain things to take into consideration. A properly planned vacation not only helps you become more organized about the trip but also makes it a memorable experience. Here are some vital things to consider before starting your fall break vacation ideas. 

1. Destination:

The first thing that we will be talking about and later in detail is the destination. We will be listing down some of the most breathtaking destinations. You should start by choosing the country or nation where you want to go then you could head to choose the specific location or place that you would like to cover in that country or continent.

2. Accommodation:

Now that you know where you will be heading, let’s talk about the stay part. Look for a place that offers a better ambiance and cozy stay. It should be warm and near to the places which you want to visit. So, after a long day, you can get to your room to relax and recharge for another day. 

3. Bags:

While you are going on the trip for a few days, don’t carry too much baggage. It gets inconvenient to carry along if there are too many bags. While traveling abroad, more luggage can cost you more money in the airport. So take the necessary item along with you. You might want to save some space for your souvenirs. 

4. Clothes:

Since we will be taking a trip for the fall season, the time when winter is on its way. You should be carrying warm clothes and socks as they can protect you from the extreme temperatures in some places. 

5. Budgeting:

The most vital part of planning any trip can be budget. You need to sort out your budget before heading out, as you don’t want to spend too much or restrict yourself from certain things. Always keep a little portion as an emergency, as it can come in handy in certain circumstances. 

Best Places for Fall Break Vacation:

Here’s a List of 35 Destinations for your fall break vacation ideas as they comprise various places rich in cultures and heritage, also vivid and vibrant for explorers. 

North America:

• Aspen, Colorado, USA
• New York City, USA
• Blue Ridge Parkway, USA 
• Quebec City, Canada 
• Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
• Napa Valley, California, USA 
• Great Smoky Mountains, USA 

Best time to visit: late September to October

Tips: Book Accommodations in Advance, Consider Off-Peak Travel, Pack Comfortable Walking Shoes, and Check for Travel Restrictions

Europe:

8. Bavaria, Germany 
9. Tuscany, Italy 
10. Paris, France 
11. Edinburgh, Scotland 
12. Amsterdam, Netherlands
13. Prague, Czech Republic
14. Lake Bled, Slovenia 
15. Santorini, Greece

Best time to visit: between September and October

Tips: Pack for unpredictable weather, Research about local festivals, and Learn a Few Phrases

Asia:

16. Kyoto, Japan 
17. Seoul, South Korea
18. Luang Prabang, Laos 
19. Kerala, India 
20. Bhutan

Best Time to visit: between September and November

Tips: Respect Local Customs, Bargaining, and Learn Basic Phrases

Australia & Oceania:

21. Melbourne, Australia 
22. Queenstown, New Zealand 
23. Fiji 

Best time to visit: March to May

Tips: Familiarize yourself with the local currency, Consider purchasing travel insurance, and have the necessary visas required. 

South America:

24. Patagonia, Chile/Argentina
25. Cusco, Peru 
26. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Best time to visit: between March and May

Tips: Learn Basic Spanish, Consider a Guided Tour, Stay Hydrated, and Respect Local Customs.

Africa:

27. Cape Town, South Africa 
28. Morocco 
29. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe 

Best Time to visit: between late September and October

Tips: Book in advance, Pack a good camera, and enjoy the adventure

Middle East:

30. Petra, Jordan
31. Dubai, UAE 

Best time to visit: between September and November

Tips: Book Tours and Activities, Bargaining, Cultural Experiences, and Ask for permission before taking photos.

Island Destinations:

32. Maui, Hawaii, USA
33. Canary Islands, Spain 
34. Maldives 
35. Bali, Indonesia 

Best time to visit: late September to early November

Tips: Respect local customs, Travel insurance, Emergency contacts, and Capture the beauty

Conclusion:

This fall break, give yourself the vacation you deserve. Go out, have the adventure of your life, meet new people, and know different traditions. These trips also offer you a chance to reflect and rediscover yourself. They are an opportunity to relax and reconnect to your spiritual self. These fall break vacation ideas will surely bring out the best memories you will cherish forever. From the paradise of islands to the snowy mountains, it is the perfect list for planning your vacation. So pack your bags, get your coat, and get ready for a vivid and wild journey this fall season. 

Historic Impact of the Rosenwald Schools

In the early 20th century, a pivotal educational movement quietly transformed the rural South, significantly influencing the educational and economic future of African American families. This initiative focused on establishing the Rosenwald Schools, a network of modest one- to three-teacher buildings that exclusively served over 700,000 Black children between 1917 and 1932. These nearly 5,000 schoolhouses became a cornerstone for educational progress among African Americans in the rural South, helping bridge the gap in literacy and access to formal education.

The establishment of Rosenwald Schools was the result of an unexpected collaboration between Booker T. Washington, a renowned African American educator and thought leader, and Julius Rosenwald, a German-Jewish immigrant who became a successful businessman as the head of Sears, Roebuck & Company. In 1912, Rosenwald contributed $25,000 to support Black colleges and preparatory academies, at which point Washington proposed allocating part of the funds to construct rural elementary schools in Black communities. Over the next two decades, this collaboration would revolutionize education for African Americans in the South.

Educational and Civil Rights Legacy

The Rosenwald Schools had a profound impact on educational outcomes for Black students in the rural South. By providing access to quality education, the program significantly increased literacy rates and school attendance. Children who attended Rosenwald Schools received better schooling, which led to longer years of education and a brighter future for many. The initiative not only improved access to learning but also empowered students to become advocates for social change, equipping them with the tools to challenge systemic inequality.

A generation of future civil rights leaders benefited from the education they received at Rosenwald Schools. Notable figures such as poet Maya Angelou, civil rights activist Medgar Evers, Congressman John Lewis, and members of the Little Rock Nine, who fought for desegregation in schools, were among the alumni of these institutions. Their leadership in the civil rights movement underscored the long-term impact of the Rosenwald initiative, illustrating how education could be a vehicle for social justice and equality.

Modern Efforts to Revive the Rosenwald Model

Impact of Rosenwald schools on education and how they changed the lives of Black Americans

In 2024, a new initiative seeks to learn from the legacy of Rosenwald Schools by mapping their history and impact across North Carolina’s Black Belt region. This project, a collaboration between the Southeast Regional Coalition for University-Assisted Community Schools and the North Carolina Community Schools Coalition, aims to assess how the Rosenwald community school model can be adapted to help modern schools maximize student success. By analyzing the historical contributions of these schools and identifying resource disparities, the project seeks to bridge the educational gaps still present today.

The data gathered from this initiative will provide valuable insights into how the principles of the Rosenwald Schools can be applied to today’s educational challenges. As educators and policymakers look for ways to improve access to quality education for underserved communities, the Rosenwald model offers a blueprint for how schools can foster academic achievement and cultivate future leaders. By reviving the lessons from this historic educational experiment, modern schools can continue the mission of providing equal educational opportunities to all students.

The landscape of global education is witnessing a remarkable transformation globally. According to UNESCO’s Higher Education Global Data report released in 2022, the number of students enrolled in higher education institutions worldwide has surged to over 235 million as of 2020. This figure represents a more than twofold increase from the 100 million students enrolled in 2000. Notably, the global gross enrollment ratio climbed to 40% in 2022. However, this growth is not uniformly distributed; Sub-Saharan Africa’s enrollment ratio lags significantly at 9%.

In Northern America and Europe, student enrollment constituted 40% of the global rates in 2000 but declined to 21% by 2020. Despite this decrease in proportion, the absolute number of students in these regions grew by 24% over the same period. Central and Southern Asia have seen the most dramatic rise, with student numbers increasing by an astonishing 286% from 2000 to 2020, growing from 13% to 21% of global enrollment rates.

Public institutions dominate global higher education, enrolling about two-thirds of students, while private institutions account for the remaining third. Notably, Latin America and the Caribbean have the highest private enrollment rates at 54%, contrasted by Oceania’s 15%. Moreover, the number of higher education institutions has expanded by 52% between 2006 and 2018 in 55 countries.

Secondary and Tertiary Education Attainment

A report from the Education Policy and Data Center on Global Education Trends projects that secondary education will become a standard for young adults in most countries by 2025, with Sub-Saharan Africa being a notable exception. Tertiary education attainment is anticipated to be highest among adults in Eastern European and OECD countries by the same year. This trend underscores a global shift towards higher education as a critical component of socioeconomic development and individual advancement.

Comparing Education Systems: Leaders and Laggards

Diverse education systems reflect varying levels of investment and outcomes worldwide. According to the Insider Monkey Global Education Index, the United States, the United Kingdom, and China are among the top countries with the best education systems. As of 2024, the United States allocates 5.44% of its GDP to education, with a per capita spending of $4371.

The United Kingdom spends 5.33% of its GDP on education, translating to $2606 per capita, while China invests 3.30% of its GDP, amounting to $414 per capita. Following these leading nations are Germany, Australia, Italy, and Japan, each contributing significantly to global educational standards.

Conversely, Somalia is positioned at the lowest end of the education index, with minimal investment in education and no universities listed in the QS rankings. Somalia’s education expenditure stands at a mere 0.27% of its GDP. South Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Burundi also rank poorly, reflecting severe challenges in educational infrastructure and accessibility.

Insights and Implications

These findings highlight stark contrasts in global education systems, driven by differing levels of economic investment, institutional capacity, and regional priorities. The substantial increase in higher education enrollment signals a positive trend towards greater access and opportunities for learning. However, the disparities between regions, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, indicate ongoing challenges that require targeted interventions and international cooperation.

As countries strive to enhance their education systems, the focus on secondary and tertiary education attainment is critical. Ensuring that young adults worldwide have access to quality education is essential for fostering innovation, economic growth, and social progress. The diverse approaches and varying success rates among countries offer valuable lessons and opportunities for shared learning and collaboration in the quest for educational excellence.

Parents across the United States are engaging in a clandestine movement, dubbed the “Underground Railroad to Public Education,” to liberate their children from the confines of segregated and subpar schools. Faced with rigid school boundaries that perpetuate racial and economic segregation, these parents are determined to secure better educational opportunities for their children, often at great personal risk.

As the nation commemorates the 70th anniversary of the historic Brown v. Board of Education ruling, reports from advocacy groups like Available to All and Yes. every kid. shed light on the detrimental impact of strict school boundaries on perpetuating segregation. These reports underscore the urgent need to abolish such boundaries and enact laws that protect families seeking enrollment in schools that offer quality education.

The Underground Railroad to Public Education operates through a network of information sharing, carpools, and meticulous research of laws. Parent activist Kelley Williams-Bolar, whose own experience with legal repercussions for enrolling her children in a better school ignited national attention, describes it as a movement driven by the simple desire for the best for their children, free from the threat of criminalization.

Challenges and Racial Biases in School Boundaries: A Closer Look

In states like New Mexico, where Navajo parents navigate complex logistics to access better schools, Superintendent Karen Sanchez-Griego emphasizes that the goal is to secure what’s best for their children. However, challenges persist as districts resort to extreme measures, such as hiring private detectives to monitor parental compliance with school boundaries.

While districts argue for the necessity of boundaries to maintain order and allocate resources, advocates like Tim DeRoche and Halli Faulkner highlight the deeply entrenched racial biases underlying these divisions. They argue that boundaries often reflect historical redlining practices, perpetuating systemic inequalities in access to education.

African-american Student Chosen to Play ‘slave’ in Underground Railroad to Public Education Lesson at School

Challenging Boundaries: The Continuing Struggle for Educational Equality

Looking ahead, legislative efforts in states like South Carolina and North Carolina signal potential shifts towards open enrollment policies that prioritize educational equity. Yet, legal battles, such as the lawsuit filed by the NAACP and the Latino Action Network against New Jersey’s residential assignment of public schools, underscore the ongoing struggle for educational justice.

In the fight against segregation in education, the Underground Railroad to Public Education serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring resilience and determination of parents to break free from the shackles of inequality and secure a brighter future for their children.

Also Read: Philadelphia’s Education Leaders Address Crucial Issues in Inaugural State of Public Education

Importance of an MBA

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree is highly regarded globally for its ability to enhance business acumen, leadership skills, and networking opportunities. Whether you aspire to climb the corporate ladder, switch industries, or start your own business, an MBA equips you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate complex business challenges. Additionally, an MBA often leads to increased earning potential and opens doors to diverse career paths.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an MBA Program

When embarking on the journey to pursue an MBA, several factors should be taken into consideration to ensure a fulfilling and cost-effective experience. These factors include:

1. Accreditation

Choose an MBA program accredited by recognized bodies such as AACSB, AMBA, or EQUIS to ensure quality education and broader recognition in the business world.

2. Specialization

Consider your career goals and opt for a program that offers relevant specializations such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, or supply chain management.

3. Cost

Evaluate tuition fees, living expenses, and potential scholarships or financial aid opportunities to determine the overall affordability of the program.

4. Faculty and Resources

Research faculty profiles, alumni networks, and available resources such as career services, libraries, and industry connections offered by the institution.

5. Flexibility

Determine whether the program offers full-time, part-time, online, or hybrid options to align with your schedule and learning preferences.

Exploring the Most Affordable MBA Programs

While prestigious most affordable MBA programs often come with hefty price tags, several institutions worldwide offer affordable yet high-quality MBA programs. Let’s take a closer look at some of these institutions known for providing value-driven education at a reasonable cost. 

1. University of Wyoming – College of Business

Located in the scenic state of Wyoming, the University of Wyoming offers the most affordable MBA programs known for its affordability and quality education. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, global perspectives, and leadership development. With reasonable tuition fees and opportunities for scholarships, the University of Wyoming’s MBA program attracts students seeking a solid business education without breaking the bank.

2. University of Texas at El Paso – College of Business Administration

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) offers a comprehensive MBA program with a focus on preparing students for success in a dynamic business environment. UTEP’s College of Business Administration provides affordable tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students, making it an attractive option for aspiring business leaders looking to advance their careers.

3. Indian Institute of Management (IIM) – Online MBA Programs

In recent years, online most affordable MBA programs have gained popularity due to their flexibility and affordability. Institutions like the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) offer online MBA programs that provide the same rigorous curriculum and faculty expertise as their on-campus counterparts. With lower tuition costs and the ability to study from anywhere, IIM’s online MBA programs cater to working professionals and students seeking a balance between work, life, and education.

4. Eastern Washington University – College of Business

Eastern Washington University’s MBA program stands out for its affordability, diverse faculty, and strong emphasis on practical skills. Located in Cheney, Washington, the program offers a range of specializations including finance, marketing, and management. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and opportunities to engage with industry partners, all at a reasonable cost compared to many other most affordable MBA programs 

5. University of Cape Town – Graduate School of Business

For international students seeking an affordable yet prestigious MBA program, the University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB) in South Africa offers an excellent option. UCT GSB is known for its strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and African business perspectives. The program attracts a diverse cohort of students from across the globe and provides scholarship opportunities to support talented individuals with financial needs.

6. University of Louisiana at Monroe – College of Business and Social Sciences

The University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) offers an MBA program designed to meet the needs of working professionals seeking advanced business education. With affordable tuition rates, flexible course options, and a supportive learning environment, ULM’s College of Business and Social Sciences prepares students for leadership roles in various industries while keeping costs manageable.

7. National University of Singapore (NUS) – MBA Program

Ranked among the top business schools globally, the National University of Singapore (NUS) offers an MBA program known for its academic excellence and diverse student body. Despite its prestigious status, NUS provides financial aid options and scholarships to eligible students, ensuring that talented individuals from different backgrounds can access quality education without excessive financial burden.

8. California State University, Fresno – Craig School of Business

California State University, Fresno (Fresno State) offers an MBA program through its Craig School of Business that combines affordability with a comprehensive business curriculum. Students benefit from experienced faculty, industry partnerships, and opportunities for internships and practical experience. Fresno State’s MBA program prepares graduates for competitive roles in today’s business landscape while maintaining reasonable tuition fees.

9. University of South Florida – Muma College of Business

The University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business is known for its diverse MBA programs catering to different career aspirations. Whether you are interested in finance, healthcare management, or entrepreneurship, USF offers affordable MBA options with a focus on real-world applications and experiential learning. The college also provides scholarships and assistantships to support students financially.

10. University of Houston – Bauer College of Business

Ranked among the top business schools in the U.S., the University of Houston’s Bauer College of Business offers an MBA program known for its affordability and strong ties to the Houston business community. Students benefit from a range of specializations, networking events, and career development resources while paying competitive tuition rates compared to similar most affordable MBA programs nationwide.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pursuing an MBA can significantly impact your career trajectory and earning potential, but it doesn’t have to come with exorbitant costs. By carefully researching and considering factors such as accreditation, specialization, cost, faculty, and flexibility, aspiring MBA candidates can find programs that offer exceptional value without breaking the bank. The institutions highlighted above represent just a fraction of the most affordable MBA programs available globally, emphasizing that quality education and affordability can indeed go hand in hand in the world of business education.

A University of South Carolina (USC) professor, Minuette Floyd, has been recognized with the prestigious Governor’s Award for Arts in Education, the highest honor bestowed by the state for outstanding contributions to the arts.

Floyd, a distinguished professor of art education in USC’s School of Visual Art and Design, was announced as the recipient of the award by the South Carolina Arts Commission on behalf of Governor Henry McMaster. This accolade acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and achievement in practicing or supporting the arts.

With a background as a former elementary art teacher, Floyd has been instrumental in providing enriching experiential learning opportunities for students both within and beyond the classroom. Notably, she has led impactful service-learning programs to destinations such as London and South Africa, broadening students’ horizons and fostering cultural exchange.

David Platts, Executive Director of the Arts Commission, praised Floyd’s extensive contributions, stating, “Dr. Floyd’s cumulative work and approach to arts learning earned her this honor. Her inclusion practices have had a statewide impact, and expanded access to arts learning.”

Innovating Arts in Education and Empowering Youth

Floyd’s commitment to advancing arts education extends beyond traditional boundaries. She secured funding through a grant that enabled 10 first-generation college students to travel with her to Ghana in 2023, using art experiences to facilitate cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. This initiative aligns with Floyd’s research interests, which encompass multicultural art education, interdisciplinary art instruction, and the documentation of folk traditions through photography.

Moreover, Floyd has played a pivotal role as the professor of record for the state education department’s Curriculum Leadership Institute in the Arts since 2002. Additionally, she directs the Young Artist’s Workshop, a program where art education majors develop and teach comprehensive instructional units to children from the Midlands. Notably, Floyd also offers scholarships to underrepresented youth, ensuring access to this enriching program.

Honoring Minuette Floyd: A Spotlight on Arts Education Excellence

The upcoming Governor’s Award for the Arts ceremony, scheduled for mid-May, will see Floyd and other recipients honored during a broadcast on South Carolina ETV. As part of the ceremony, a short film by a South Carolina filmmaker will spotlight Floyd’s remarkable achievements, providing well-deserved recognition for her invaluable contributions to arts education.

Minuette Floyd’s dedication to fostering creativity, cultural understanding, and educational excellence exemplifies the spirit of the Governor’s Award for Arts in Education, underscoring the profound impact of arts education on individuals and communities alike.

Also Read: Navigating Proposition 28: Panel Stresses Collaboration and Accountability in Expanding Arts Education

For Earnest Smith, a former South Carolina State hopeful and current member of the Georgia House of Representatives, the news stirred unpleasant memories from his college days during the tumultuous 1970s. The proposal, if implemented, could have far-reaching consequences, as seen in the past when students had to leave due to discontinued programs.

The conflict surrounding the Board of Trustees proposal, currently postponed, underscores a clash between capitalist motives and community well-being. Christopher Rounds, an assistant professor of history at South Carolina State, warns that the university’s current struggle sets a perilous precedent.

“Universities are increasingly governed like corporations, where everything revolves around data. There must be a place in our society governed by loftier principles,” warns Rounds. The potential elimination of majors focusing on humanity and African American history raises concerns about erasing vital aspects of our shared past.

A Fight for Transparency and Program Preservation Amidst Board Decisions

Recent protests by South Carolina State students and organizations, including the South Carolina Education Association, highlight the gravity of the situation. Adriana Perez, president of the association, switched her major in protest, reflecting the students’ determination to fight for transparency and the preservation of essential programs.

The suddenness of the proposal blindsided both students and professors, leaving them with a sense of urgency. Rounds mentioned that although low enrollment in the history program was acknowledged, the board’s decision came before the initiatives to address the issue could take effect.

The administration, represented by Sam Watson, South Carolina State’s director of university relations, justifies the proposed program removal by citing a decade’s worth of data and adherence to enrollment and degrees awarded criteria. Watson emphasizes that concerns expressed through established protocols will not alter trend data.

Battling to Preserve Cultural Heritage and Forge Future Leaders

Faculty members like Alison McLetchie stress the potential devastation of removing academic programs. The history and social studies education programs hold significant cultural and historical value for the university and its community. The legacy of producing important citizens, commemorated for their sacrifices during the Orangeburg Massacre, is at stake.

For alumni like Earnest Smith, this challenge is an opportunity for leadership and resilience. Smith emphasizes the importance of standing up and fighting for the benefits that may not be realized immediately but will shape the future for generations to come.

As South Carolina State navigates these uncertain waters, the debate encapsulates more than just an academic restructuring; it becomes a battle for preserving cultural heritage, shaping future leaders, and standing against the erasure of historical narratives.

Also Read: Cooperative Education Programs: Bridging Classroom to Career

The Idea of Waiving Tuition Fees for Transgender Students

Minister Patil proposed the idea of waiving tuition fees for transgender students, urging universities to cover the costs from their funds. The proposal received unanimous approval from the vice-chancellors present at the meeting. This step is viewed as the initial stride towards fostering inclusivity on higher education campuses in Maharashtra.

The Higher and Technical Education Ministry shared insights into the broader vision, stating that the state intends to formulate a comprehensive policy ensuring the inclusion of transgender individuals in higher education. Minister Patil encouraged vice-chancellors to actively engage in this process by identifying and addressing challenges faced by transgender students. These challenges may encompass infrastructural shortcomings, such as the absence of separate toilets, as well as the lack of sensitization in the student community, leading to issues like bullying that deter many transgender students from revealing their identities.

The Practical Implementation of this Policy

Highlighting the practical implementation of this policy, KC Law College recently admitted a transgender student through the centralized admission process conducted by the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell for the LLB course. Currently, Mumbai University boasts seven transgender students enrolled in affiliated colleges.

The pivotal meeting took place at Dr. Homi Bhabha State University in Mumbai and was attended by administrative heads from various departments, Vice-Chancellors of all state universities, and members of the NEP2020 steering committee led by Dr. Nitin Karmalkar, former V-C of Savitribai Phule Pune University.

Apart from addressing the transgender education initiative, the meeting delved into the NAAC accreditation status of universities and affiliated colleges. Minister Patil emphasized the need for a voter registration campaign, proposing that the National Service Scheme (NSS) students in universities and colleges take the lead in ensuring that all eligible students are registered to vote.

The Decision to provide Free Higher Education for Transgender in Maharashtra Reflects a Commitment to Creating an Inclusive Educational Environment

In addition, Patil encouraged universities to consider offering certification courses without exams. This initiative aims to facilitate individuals who had left education due to reasons such as employment or business but hesitate to return due to exam-related concerns. The move aligns with a broader vision of making education more accessible and accommodating for diverse student populations.

The decision to provide free higher education for transgender individuals in Maharashtra reflects a commitment to creating an educational environment that is inclusive, supportive, and responsive to the diverse needs of all students. As the state takes these bold steps, it sets an encouraging precedent for promoting diversity and equality in higher education institutions.

Also Read: The Advantage Of Higher Education In The South African Work Market Is Rapidly Eroding

A post-1994 consensus has developed in South Africa that education is an effective instrument for bridging the gap between job searchers and accessible economic possibilities due to the detrimental consequences of apartheid’s “Bantu education,” which provided subpar education to the majority of population.

However, new patterns indicate that this established partnership may be going through a considerable shift, which, if ignored, could have an unanticipated and unfavourable impact on the South African work market.

In South Africa, a recurring pattern has emerged over the past few decades: those with greater education are more likely to find productive employment. But there has been a noticeable change in recent years. In South Africa, 33% of those with a basic education and 31% of those with an intermediate education were unemployed in 2000, respectively. By 2022, unemployment for those with advanced degrees had increased to 15%, while unemployment for those with basic and intermediate degrees had increased to 34% and 32%, respectively. Simply put, the unemployment rate for South Africans with advanced degrees is rising quickly, narrowing the employment gap between them and other groups.

In 2020 and 2021, there was less of a difference in the unemployment rates between South Africans with basic and intermediate education levels. When both groups’ unemployment rates increased from around 28% in about 2020 to around 33% in 2021, an unanticipated convergence occurred.

The 2008 financial crisis, widespread state capture beginning in 2009, and South Africa’s wasted chances throughout global commodity booms due to poor policies and precarious macroeconomic conditions are some of the causes of this overall increase in unemployment. In large part because to inadequate governmental measures, the impact of Covid-19 also worsened unemployment in 2020.

For advanced degrees, the problem is mostly caused by the abundance of degrees that produce skills that are out of step with the demands of a shifting South African work market and a faltering economy.

WATCH: The South African Work Market Dynamics

This change in the environment has broad repercussions and compels us to ask if advanced degrees will continue to have the same impact on employment prospects as they formerly did in the near future.

The graph’s trend, which shows that there is little difference in unemployment rates between individuals with university education and other groups, could indicate a fundamental change in how education influences South African work market outcomes.

Given the established importance of education in South Africa’s economic progress, the disengagement of highly educated South Africans also has the potential to impede the country’s long-term economic advancement. As talented individuals go for possibilities elsewhere, this also causes a brain drain, which results in wealth outflows. Additionally, the home affairs department’s capacity and administrative issues, together with a lack of incentives to attract in-demand skills, result in a modest inflow of foreign talent.

It is crucial to close the gap between education spending (such as student loans and bursaries) and economic expansion. Growing opportunities that make use of these investments enables people to contribute to economic progress, produces a vibrant labour force, and boosts tax revenue for the government.

The first quarter of 2023’s statistics underscore the gravity of the situation even more. According to Stats SA, the nation has one of the highest rates of unemployment with a 32.9% unemployment rate.

Actions required

The creation of a favorable investment climate is a key remedy. To encourage both foreign direct investment and the growth of current ventures, it is crucial to provide investor-friendly policies, simplified rules, and effective bureaucratic procedures. This approach can inject new money into the economy, encourage innovation, and open up a variety of job opportunities across industries, ensuring that education and skill development are used right away in the economic development of the nation.

The first step towards an investment-centric strategy is to address the frequent electrical outages, euphemistically referred to as “load-shedding,” which have a negative impact on the economy of the nation. This problem not only interferes with corporate operations but also deters potential investors. It is crucial to take quick action to reduce load-shedding since doing so will help to boost investor confidence and provide the favorable conditions needed for long-term economic growth.

The gap between theoretical knowledge and practical abilities can be closed through fostering collaboration between educational institutions and businesses, improving graduates’ employability. This partnership between academics and the demands of the South African work market may make sure that students have the necessary knowledge and experiences, easing and improving their transition into the workforce.

Research and development (R&D) incentives can influence a nation’s economic future. South Africa can create new employment possibilities that meet the shifting needs of a globalized economy and its labour market by fostering innovation and the formation of new sectors. With this approach to R&D, the country may become a center for cutting-edge technology and solutions, luring investments and producing top-notch jobs in booming industries.

Enhancing the support network for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) can benefit both job growth and economic resilience. Developing small businesses and entrepreneurs can boost regional economies, diversify the South African work market, and promote general economic stability. These companies are renowned for their capacity to quickly adjust to shifting market demands, which makes them crucial in supplying a wide variety of employment prospects.

It is impossible to overstate the importance of labor-absorbing investment and growth for South Africa. South Africa can meet the demands of a changing labour market and use education and skills to fuel its economic growth by embracing this broad approach.

Also Read: In South Africa, Schools Prioritize Educating About Environmental Challenges

In order to please kids, parents, and politicians at the same time as the 2024 election heats up and reports show declining test scores, educators are at the forefront of the effort.

The new year is anticipated to present significant problems for educators, including disputes at the legislative level about how and what should be taught in the classroom and the removal of books from classroom shelves and technological advancements.

Before the start of the new school year, keep an eye on the following major issues in education:

1. Learning Decline

Numerous studies have revealed that children have gotten behind in important disciplines like maths and reading as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, which is still having an impact on students’ academic performance.

Even if the majority of students will return to the classroom in 2021, the learning loss caused by online or hybrid learning is nevertheless felt today.

According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), average maths and reading scores for 13-year-olds are at their lowest levels since 1990 and 2004, respectively.

In a May NAEP assessment, eighth graders’ average civics scores fell to levels last seen in 1998, while their history scores fell 9 percentage points from 2014.

Peggy Carr, commissioner of the National Centre for Education Statistics, stated following the results from June that “the bottom line is that these results show that there are troubling gaps in the basic skills of the students.”

The main takeaway from this is that we have a long journey ahead of us, said Carr.

2. Banned Books

Certain book bans and the criticism of literature in classrooms have become hot-button r issues that are unlikely to go away anytime soon.

According to PEN America, a free speech organisation, 1,477 book bans were put into effect during the first six months of the 2022–23 academic year. The group were sure to emphasise that they could only confirm those bans, and that the actual number is “unquestionably much higher.”

The group claimed that over the past year, “…terms like ‘obscene,’ ‘pornographic,’ ‘harmful to minors,’ and’ sexually explicit’ are being used to restrict a range of content, including books on LGBTQ+ experiences, stories with any sexual references, sex education materials, books with depictions of death or abuse, and art books.

The majority of the bans have taken place in states with a Republican governor, as Republicans claim that doing so will prevent kids from having access to improper books.

Changes have been made in Florida to make it simpler to dispute a book and have it taken off the shelves, where it can remain while an investigation is conducted for months.

3. ChatGPT and AI

As they figure out how to use the recently popularised technology, instructors in high school and college face challenges from artificial intelligence and chatbots like ChatGPT.

In the second half of the previous academic year, ChatGPT created a commotion, and several high schools even banned the service from their servers due to concerns about cheating. Due to worries about AI-related cheating, some college professors altered their assignments and assessments.

The technology will be widely known and used for the first time for the entire academic year, and educators will be a little better equipped to handle it.

When students employ AI for their papers, educators have discovered several telltale signals, and universities are creating standards and trainings to assist academics in comprehending and changing the students’ work.

We’re not saying you can’t use it or that you have to. In the end, that would be kind of dumb. According to Youngmoo Kim, director of the Expressive and Creative Interactive Technologies Centre at Drexel University, “what we’re very aggressively promoting is for our staff to become more aware about it, to perform the specific things.

In other words, if you have a collection of homework assignments that you always complete or test questions that you frequently or repeatedly utilise, enter them into the ChatGPT and see what results you receive. Do that investigation so that you, as the educator, are much more comfortable with what you know, what it is capable of, and what to expect there.

4. Curriculum Adjustments

Recent curriculum modifications in certain states for grades K–12 and even colleges have generated criticism.

Republican-led states have been engaged in battles over curriculum at the K–12 level for a while now, focusing in particular on ideas like critical race theory (CRT).

More than a dozen states have passed legislation rejecting the scholarly hypothesis that racism is ingrained in American institutions. Republicans, according to opponents, have used the legislation to outlaw subjects they don’t like, and CRT is not taught in K–12, they claim.

After Florida rejected the AP African American Studies course, which encountered opposition from even some conservatives, the state recently adopted new criteria for teaching African American history.

The problematic passage in the revised curriculum claims that persons who were held in slavery “developed skills” that were beneficial to them.

Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, a Republican candidate for president, declared that slavery had no positive aspects. “Really, slavery was about breaking up families, about mutilating people, even about raping their wives. Simply put, it was devastating.

The law stating specific subjects cannot be covered in general education courses at public universities was also approved by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R).

The themes that are off-limits concern “theories that systemic racism, sexism, oppression, and privilege are inherent in the institutions of the United States and were created to maintain social, political, and economic inequities.”

Also Read: Obama’s First College to End Legacy Admissions

An applicant’s family connections to Occidental graduates “could be considered” in the past but had only a “minimal impact” on selections, according to a campus letter from the school’s president.

The Changes in Place

Occidental will no longer question candidates about alumni links as part of the application, according to President Harry J. Elam Jr.’s letter to the school on Wednesday. “Still, to ensure we are removing any potential barriers to access and opportunity, Occidental will no longer ask applicants about alumni relationships as part of the application,” he said. He referenced the ruling of the Supreme Court.

The 2,000-student college is well-known for being the place where Barack Obama started his college career in 1979. Obama attended Occidental for two years before transferring to Columbia. At the institution, Obama made his first political address in 1981, pleading with the administrators to divest from South Africa.

U.S. colleges divided over whether to end legacy admissions

Obama was not a legacy student, and neither did his parents, according to an Occidental spokesman. Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, colleges around the country have been under increasing pressure to stop using legacy admissions. Opponents claim it can no longer be justified without a counterweight in affirmative action since it is seen as an additional benefit for the wealthy and white.

A Continuous Trend

A week after Wesleyan University in Connecticut discontinued legacy admissions, Occidental announced the change. A candidate’s relationship to a Wesleyan graduate “indicates little about that applicant’s ability to succeed at the university,” the school’s president said.

As a result of a civil rights organisation filing a complaint saying that legacy admissions are discriminatory and offer white students an unfair advantage, the U.S. Education Department is now looking into Harvard’s use of the practise. According to the Lawyers for Civil Rights complaint, students with family links to Harvard are up to seven times more likely to be accepted, can make up about a third of a class, and are generally about 70% white.

Following the elimination of affirmative action, opponents have increased their efforts. This month, the NAACP has urged more than 1,500 universities to stop using legacy admissions, and the organisation Ed Mobilizer has relaunched a campaign pushing alumni of 30 esteemed colleges to postpone making donations until their institutions do away with the practise.

Read More: Top 10 Universities in the US

H.E. Sahle Work Zewde, President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, offered the following in her speech of congratulations:

“I congratulate the graduates for achieving this day by overcoming challenges and ups and downs you encountered relating to social, educational, and occasionally political difficulties throughout your tenure in the Addis Ababa University.

For more than seven decades, Addis Ababa University has provided the nation with education, research, and community service. It is now impossible to find an Ethiopian in any organisation or home in the nation who has no connection to Addis Ababa University.

The government built other universities in the nation for a variety of objectives in the academic sector, and Addis Ababa University serves as a human resource feeder to other institutions. The government, the private as well as the service sectors, the agriculture, and other economic sectors of the nation have all benefited from its largest contribution of skilled and well-educated people resources.

Being educated is more than just receiving an A, B, or C and graduating; it also entails bringing about and taking ownership of behavioural changes in life trends of human endeavour that extend to altering the circumstances of the present.

Universities are locations where fresh, unique ideas are developed, and the people who come out of them are people who want to use their knowledge to improve their country by addressing its issues. They are free spaces where students can study while entertaining many points of view, ideas, and concepts while upholding the principles of equality, respect, and mutual benefit.

Our universities are intended to be able to raise people’s standards of living, promote cohesion, give the government policy resources, support democratic trends, and advance development and good governance.

AAU GRADUATES OVER 8,600 STUDENTS IN VARIOUS FIELDS

Although our nation has faced many difficulties over the years, those that occurred over the past four years were particularly painful and ought to never happen again. Instead of cooperating to lift our people out of poverty, many unarmed individuals have been murdered in their own country.

While people in other countries are studying some earthly phenomena, we are still killing one another over things like language, origin, nationality, and religion. We could see that several of our defenceless citizens had been brutally murdered for reasons they could not comprehend.

Being educated entails raising awareness, choosing a progressive worldview, opposing wrongdoing, getting involved in finding answers, claiming a mandate on matters pertaining to my country, and similar things. Our nation has high expectations for each of us; our citizens need to be able to work freely and safely, receive a great education, have equitable access to the market, have access to clean water, electricity, and transportation infrastructure, or have access to basic necessities generally.

Now that you have graduated, you will be working in the real world. Education doesn’t end here; it has no end and learning continues through involvement in many daily activities.

We must rid our nation of famine, war, instability, civil unrest, displaced people, and backwardness. The government has increased a variety of projects in a variety of industries. All sectors must work together to advance our nation’s growth, good governance, justice, peace, and democracy, and this is made possible by the highest level of engagement among today’s fresh graduates.

We should practise tolerance, be open to listening to one another, hold civil discussions, completely comprehend the suffering of both our nation and its people, and cooperate to overcome any obstacles. A person with education looks into ways to resolve any issues in his or her nation; they also comprehend their societies’ plights and work to help them overcome them.

The diploma you received today is a step towards establishing a link between academic and research endeavours. The government makes every effort to generate as many different types of jobs as it can in order to utilise this combination of knowledge and abilities. There are no situations in any industrialised country when all graduates receive direct employment from the government, thus our experience is not unique.

You are therefore expected to create your own jobs by working alone, in pairs, in groups, or by finding employment in the private sector. The government will assist you in this regard by giving you workspace, establishing market connectivity, supplying materials and logistics, offering general multidimensional support, and doing tighter follow-ups.

Finally, dear graduates of today, wherever you are and under whatever circumstances, love your nation, Ethiopia, as much as your parents do; be accessible whenever and wherever your country needs you; and serve your people equally.

According to reports, Addis Ababa University President Professor Tassew Weldehanna said the following:

“Dear graduates, the Addis Ababa University requests you to help the government in different areas of activities including reading, researching and deeper thinking of the world phenomena with your different areas of discipline you have been equipped trough learning. The government also requires you to serve with open hearts in service sectors where you get the opportunity to engage on.   As far as you are initiated to help Ethiopia, you get not only its problems but it also has valuable treasures that will benefit you much.”

Also Read: In South Africa, Schools Prioritize Educating About Environmental Challenges

“It’s high time we educated our kids about driving safety. As a ministry, we have created a curriculum on road safety for lower primary students, but we still struggle to find staff who are knowledgeable in this field. This is something we want to roll even for upper primary. According to Katushabe, “We write to the Ministry of Education and engage them on how this can be implemented and have people understand road safety from basic school up to possibly university.

Road safety education will be taught in primary schools, the state’s minister for basic education, Dr. Moricu Kaducu, announced in a statement.

“In 2011, we implemented a road safety programme in the lower primary division, but it hasn’t produced the desired results, and we need to take further action. Moving forward, we will work with the Ministry of Transportation to determine the best way to create an upper primary curriculum with regard to the subjects that will be covered and taught. It is challenging to roll it out without agreement on what to teach, according to Kaducu.

“Most importantly, we want to make sure that we seize every opportunity presented by new educational materials. We’re debating, for instance, whether all text books should have a statement on road safety on the front cover. Our kids will benefit if we include the same road safety advice in the textbooks. We are talking about the several ways to teach youngsters in upper primary schools about road safety.

New initiative

The head up campaign, according to Johan Grobbelaar, managing director of Vivo Energy Uganda, aims to increase awareness of the value of utilizing child-specific helmets to protect young passengers. In response, he stated that Vivo Energy Uganda would give more than 1000 helmets to at least 50 schools across the nation.

We work to make the world a safer place and to safeguard the welfare of children riding in boda-bodas by encouraging safe driving practices and pushing for the use of child-specific helmets. We must prioritize teaching students about traffic safety and awareness. We must consider how to teach our kids about driving safety, Grobbelaar stated.

Road Safety Rules And Signs For Kids

“Children should be required to wear helmets before getting on motorcycles as a golden rule. Their lives are being protected by doing this. Every boda boda rider needs to be made aware of the importance of road safety because every youngster deserves a safe ride. We should all keep in mind that what we do can help to save the young passengers’ lives.

Dr. Moricu Kaducu, the state’s minister of primary education, said it’s crucial to keep kids safe while they ride motorcycles to and from school.

“Many people have ignored this concern about children’s safety on the road. The majority of those who violate traffic laws by speeding, not wearing helmets, and wearing reflective clothing are motorcyclists. Many riders are unlicensed and lack even the most basic instruction in road safety. All of these result in mishaps, which involve innocent students and souls.

The minister stated that the majority of accidents involving boda boda had resulted in numerous fatalities for the nation. According to Ministry of Health statistics, hospital overcrowding is primarily caused by traffic accidents. According to Rogers Nsereko, the commander of the Kampala Metropolitan traffic police, wearing a helmet when driving is essential.

Alba Brandt, the initiative’s founder, claimed that she had the idea for the project in 2017 after spending six months at a related project in Bali, Indonesia, as part of what was meant to be a family vacation with her husband and three daughters. The 44-year-old ex-accountant spoke while donning a pair of Bermuda shorts, a coral sweatshirt, and a loose bun in her hair.

“It changed our whole lives,” she said. At the school, which is around 60 kilometres (37 miles) from Cape Town, she said, “I realized there was so much more to education than to sit still, in your uniform, be quiet, and regurgitate what is written on the blackboard.” This institute is located in a privileged area of the country that is abundant in vineyards and plant life, unlike the majority of South Africa schools, which force students to wear uniforms.

– Basil And Butterflies

The school, which began operations last year, was constructed on what Brandt described as “dead, trampled” terrain in a former horse pasture.

“We began planting with endemic plants and without chemicals two years ago. Butterfly and bee populations increased, as well as porcupines. On hot southern spring days, snakes are also known to lurk in some shrubs where kids are aware they shouldn’t play. On the school grounds, there are swing sets, huts, and sandboxes, and the canteen’s zero-waste kitchen only offers vegetarian options for meals. When AFP visited, the menu had three distinct salads that were topped with garden-fresh basil. Large windows in classrooms provide lots of natural light.

Electricity is generated by solar panels, while air conditioning is provided through a network of water pipes under the floor. There are now roughly 170 students registered in the school, which serves all grade levels from nursery school to secondary. There are just twenty students in each class and two teachers.

South Africa Environmental Issues

In South Africa Teaching is conducted in both English and Afrikaans, reflecting the demographics of the region, and it has a thematic approach with topics covered in all subjects. For instance, consider life on Mars, suggested principal Andrew Wood. We’ll talk about arithmetic, astronomy, gravity in physics, and science fiction literature, he said.

“What they are learning ought to make sense?”

‘Think Critically’

The 62-year-old educator claimed that the “Green School” does not focus on “downloading contents” into students’ minds, but rather encourages them to “think critically” in keeping with 21st-century learning abilities.

Esbie Binedell, South Africa’s a primary school teacher, laughed and remarked, “This is how I used to teach behind closed doors at my old school. Now I can share with parents.” “It’s a little messy, but we would delve into a subject until the kids finished asking questions.”

There are a lot of fees, and the government doesn’t fund anything. Although it will take time, a scholarship system is being created. Brandt expressed her hope that the school’s instruction would contribute to building a more resilient neighbourhood. The creator of the school claimed that being “the quirky mum who recycles and makes homemade food” was insufficient.

“You can drive that by yourself, but it’s difficult and probably won’t work. In South Africa Community is considerably more robust now. Teachers choose to use a light touch while teaching the effects of global warming despite the environmental focus. We introduce issues very gradually in order to prevent worry and ecophobia. Primarily with older children. Progressively, we start with issues the size of a hamlet, then a town, and finally an entire nation,” Brandt stated.

With its unique teaching methods and progressive mission, the green school prioritizes giving students the skills to think critically while also nurturing their creativity.

Here are 30 of the best books to teach children empathy;

1. El Deafo

El Deafo Books to teach children empathy might be challenging to enter a new school and quickly get accepted by peers. How about attending classes and meeting new acquaintances while wearing a cumbersome hearing aid around your chest? For that, you’d need to have extraordinary abilities. Cece Bell lost her hearing at an early age, and in this amusing and sad graphic book memoir, she describes her experiences with the Phonic Ear, a very strong and very unpleasant hearing aid.

The Phonic Ear improves Cece’s hearing (including her capacity to hear things she shouldn’t), but it also makes her feel different from the other students. A sincere friend who accepts her for who she is is all she truly wants. In the end, she is able to master the Phonic Ear and earn the title of “El Deafo, Listener for All.” And most crucially, claim her identity and locate her long-sought best buddy. Therefore El Deafo is Books to teach children empathy.

2. Wonder

As a result of his birth defect, August Pullman has been excluded from regular schools. Auggie wants nothing more than to blend in with his new classmates at Beecher Prep, but no one can see beyond his remarkable face. The narrative of Wonder Books to teach children empathy, which is now at the top of the New York Times bestseller list and a finalist for the Texas Bluebonnet Award, starts from Auggie’s perspective but quickly shifts to include his classmates, his sister’s boyfriend, and others. These diverse points of view come together to paint a picture of a group of people who are having trouble showing and receiving kindness and tolerance.

3. Fish In A Tree

Author of the acclaimed One for the Murphys offers readers an inspiring story that will hit close to home for everyone who has ever felt alone or different. Everyone is clever in their own way. But a fish would spend its whole existence convinced it is dumb if its intelligence is based on whether or not it can scale a tree.

4. 365 Days of Wonder: Mr. Browne’s Precepts

Each Day, A New Marvel

In Wonder, readers were introduced to famous English instructor Mr. Browne and his love of principles. This Books to teach children empathy is a companion to Wonder, and it comprises dialogues between Mr. Browne and the main characters Auggie, Julian, Summer, Jack Will, and others. Included with Mr. Browne’s letters and articles is a daily admonition culled from a wide variety of sources, including pop culture, children’s literature, ancient Egyptian inscriptions, and even fortune cookies.

5. The One and Only Ivan

Having spent twenty-seven years behind the glass walls of his cage in a shopping mall, Ivan has become used to people viewing him. He seldom recalls his days in the woods. Ivan, on the other hand, spends his time watching TV, hanging out with Stella and Bob, and painting. But when he meets Ruby, a young elephant stolen from the wild, he is compelled to view their habitat, and his work, through fresh eyes.

6. Same Sun Here

By sharing their true selves and laughing together through their differences, the main characters are able to forge a bond that encourages boldness and helps them overcome cultural biases. This dual-narrated chronicle of two lives, written by two talented individuals, emphasizes the immense benefits of having friends and sharing our lives with others who share our planet’s orbit.

7. Inside Out and Back Again

The National Book Award–winning and Newbery Honor Book, Inside Out and Back Again Books to teach children empathy has also become a New York Times bestseller. Inspired by the author’s childhood experience of escaping Vietnam following the Fall of Saigon and relocating to Alabama, this coming-of-age first book set in poetry has been hailed for its sympathetic child’s-eye vision of family and immigration.

8. Sunborn Rising: Beneath the Fall

It seems like Cerulean is about to completely fall apart. Although the decline was gradual and hardly perceptible, the globe is now on the brink of disaster. Cerulean’s treescape, which was once bright but has gone dull through centuries of arboreal life and forgotten by the forest’s animals, is woven forests floating on an ocean around a star.

9. The Family Under the Bridge

This Books to teach children empathy is the beautifully pleasant and amusing account of an elderly Parisian called Armand, who cherished his alone existence. He compared children to starlings and said that society would be better off without them. Even if a new buddy looked a little hesitant at first, the kids who lived beneath the bridge knew a real friend when they saw one. And it didn’t take long for Armand to figure out that he’d essentially inherited a family he loved dearly and for whom he’d need to locate a more permanent residence than the bridge.

10. Hannah Coulter

As some guys returned from the war and others were mourned, life went on in Port William, Kentucky. Hannah, Nathan’s wife, is in her sixties and finally has time to reflect on her life since the war. Wendell Berry tells the story of the Coulter kids, the Feltners, the Branches, and how the survivors “live right on” in his indelible words.

11. Brown Girl Dreaming

Woodson felt equally at home in both his native South Carolina and his adopted home of New York. In evocative poetry, she reveals what it was like to grow up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s, dealing with the remains of Jim Crow and her increasing understanding of the Civil Rights struggle. Beautiful and moving, these poems books to teach children empathy provide a window into the heart of a little girl as she navigates the world and finds her place in it.

12. Island of the Blue Dolphins

When you finish reading this Books to teach children empathy “Island of the Blue Dolphins,” you won’t be able to shake the feeling of having embarked on a spiritual journey. Karana’s unassuming bravery, Indian independence, and acceptance of destiny turn what might have been a disastrous event for most people into something positive. This Newbery Honor book is about overcoming isolation and fear to find inner strength and peace.

13. Jayber Crow

Jayber Crow Books to teach children empathy, a native of Goforth, Kentucky who lost his parents when he was ten years old, started his quest as a “pre-ministerial student” at Pigeonville College. You have been asked inane things that can’t be answered. You’ll just have to experience them for yourself, maybe one step at a time.

14. Paperboy

When it comes to fastballs, nobody can compete with Little Man. However, a conversation is a whole other story. He stutters so badly that he has trouble saying even his own name. So, he isn’t exactly looking forward to talking to the customers when he takes over his best friend’s paper route for the month of July. In reality, however, Little Man’s problems stem from the local junkman, a thug and bully.

15. The Boy on the Wooden Box: How the Impossible Became Possible

In this Books to teach children empathy, the only book written by a survivor of Schindler’s List, the author brilliantly conveys the naiveté of a little kid who must endure unspeakable horrors. Leon Leyson, whose given name is Leib Lezjon, was ten years old when the Nazis invaded Poland and his family was sent to the Krakow ghetto. Leyson’s survival through the Nazis’ sadistic treatment of inmates, especially that of the camp’s commander, the demon-possessed Amon Goeth, in the Plaszow concentration camp outside of Krakow, is a testament to his remarkable luck, tenacity, and resilience.

16. Night (Night)

Night Books to teach children empathy is Elie Wiesel’s magnum opus; it is an autobiographical description of his experience as an adolescent in Nazi death camps and is brutally honest, horrifying, and very moving. Marion Wiesel, Elie’s wife and frequent translator, has done an excellent job of capturing the tone and style of this classic book in her new version. In addition, Elie has written a fresh, in-depth prologue in which he discusses the book’s continued relevance and his lifetime, fervent commitment to ensuring that the world never forgets man’s propensity for inhumanity to man.

17. One Came Home

In the year 1871, the residents of Placid, Wisconsin, know Georgie Burkhardt for two things: her skill with a rifle and her tendency to say exactly what’s on her mind. Nonetheless, Agatha, Georgie’s elder sister, takes off with a group of “pigeoners” who are following the passenger pigeon migration when Georgie says something she shouldn’t. Everyone fears the worst when the sheriff comes to town with a corpse draped in Agatha’s blue-green ball gown. But not Georgie.

18. Tasting the Sky: A Palestinian Childhood

Ibtisam Barakat brilliantly conveys the experience of being a youngster whose world is broken by war in this pioneering memoir set in Ramallah in the wake of the 1967 Six-Day War. She recalls her youth with brave openness, detailing her terror and disorientation when bombs go off near her house and she is separated from her family and the rigors of life as a Palestinian refugee. Therefore this is the Books to teach children empathy.

19. Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood (Pantheon Graphic Novels)

Marjane Satrapi’s account of her childhood in Iran during the Islamic Revolution is wise, hilarious, and devastating; it goes by the title Persepolis. Using striking black and white comic strip pictures, Satrapi recounts her childhood in Tehran between the ages of six and fourteen, a time that witnessed the fall of the Shah’s rule, the victory of the Islamic Revolution, and the catastrophic impacts of war with Iraq. Marjane is a unique witness to the history of her nation as the brilliant and outspoken only child of devoted Marxists and the great-granddaughter of one of Iran’s last monarchs.

20. Where the Red Fern Grows

Billy’s long-held fantasy is to one day have not one, but two dogs of his very own. That’s why it makes him so happy when he’s finally able to put together enough money to buy two puppies of his very own. Even though money is tight, they want to spend their time together exploring the Ozark Mountains. Billy and his hounds quickly rise to the top of the valley’s hunting ranks. The area was captivated by tales of their remarkable successes. But disaster is in store for these dogged hunters who have become friends, and Billy discovers that one may cultivate hope from misery and future from wounds.

21. My Side of the Mountain (Puffin Modern Classics)

Sam Gribley is miserable in his family’s cramped New York City apartment, so he escapes to the mountains, where he faces danger but also discovers a side of himself he had never seen before.

22. I Hadn’t Meant to Tell You This

Marie, a little girl of twelve, is a leader among the black girls in the affluent black neighborhood of Chauncey, Ohio. When white student Lena Bright shows up to her high school, she isn’t in the market for a new pal. They are both grieving the loss of their moms, which draws them together. In addition to Books to teach children empathy, they are adept at maintaining confidentiality. For Lena has a horrible secret, and she is trying to keep it from her father and her younger sister. Marie had to decide whether sharing Lena her secret will be helpful or keeping it a secret.

23. The Breadwinner

The Breadwinner Books to teach children empathy, the first book in Deborah Ellis’s award-winning trilogy, is a compelling tale about devotion, survival, families, and friendship set in Afghanistan under the reign of the Taliban.

24. Out of My Mind

Melody deviates far from the norm. She has no ability to move or speak, but her memory is impeccable, allowing her to recall every every moment of her life. She outsmarts the doctors who attempt to diagnose her and the students in her mainstreamed school, but these same people assume she is mentally retarded since she has no way of convincing them differently. Melody, however, refuses to let her disability hold her back. And she is resolved to make that fact known to everyone.

25. Moon Over Manifest

It’s been really lonely for Abilene Tucker. Her father placed her on a train and sent her away to spend the summer with a buddy who works for the railroad. Upon arriving in Manifest, Kansas, Abilene abandons the train with just the clothes on her back and a list of universals she has compiled in her search for information about the kid her father used to be. that’s why we can say this is the best Books to teach children empathy.

26. A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story

One of the most popular Books to teach children empathy in New York At first, A Long Walk to Water is split into two storylines, one about a girl in 2008 and one about a boy in 1985, both eleven years old and living in Sudan. Nya, the little girl, spends two hours each day walking to and from a pond, where she collects water for her family’s daily needs. Salva is a survivor who faces adversity head-on, from being alone to being attacked by armed rebels to coming into touch with dangerous lions and crocodiles. His tale eventually intersects with Nya’s in a remarkable and emotional manner.

27. They Poured Fire on Us From the Sky: The True Story of Three Lost Boys from Sudan

The Flames Came Gushing Out The three brothers wrote about their unbelievable adventure in a book titled They Poured Fire on Us from the Sky. Alephonsian, Benjamin, and Benson take it in turns relating their experiences, which they recall with the candor and purity of a child’s eye view: how they suffered through hunger and strength-sapping illnesses like dysentery, malaria, and yellow fever; how they evaded life-threatening predators like lions, snakes, crocodiles, and soldiers; and how they struggled against a war that continually threatened to overwhelm them.

28. The Wall (Reading Rainbow Books)

A little kid and his father have made the trip to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in search of the child’s grandfather’s name amid the names of those who lost their lives in that conflict. His name is among the many that “march side by side, like rows of troops,” yet it is easily found. The boy’s dad is all smiles as he points to the plaque that bears his grandfather’s name. The young lad agrees, but he adds, “but I’d rather have my grandfather here.”

29. Bridge to Terabithia

Fifth-grader Jess Aarons plans to dominate his competition by becoming the fastest runner in the school with a steady regimen of summer training. And he almost succeeds until he’s surpassed by Leslie Burke, the school’s newest student. The two hit it off and spend much of their time together in the woods behind Leslie’s home, where they create a magical realm they dub Terabithia. When Leslie visits Terabithia one morning without Jess, a terrible event takes place. To overcome his sorrow, Jess will need the support of his loved ones and the fortitude that Leslie has given him.

30. Charlotte’s Web

E. B. White’s Newbery Honor Books to teach children empathy is a touching story about friendship, love, life, and death that will continue to be cherished by generations to come. Garth Williams, the renowned artist of Stuart Little by E.B. White and Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House series, among many others, contributed to the book.

Bottom line

As you know book reading is the best way to embark on the habit of keep learning something new. However, not everything can be achieved by just reading a book, you have to implement those things in real life. Moreover, empathy can be learned by not just reading a book but also practicing it in daily life. After reading these Books to teach children empathy you should start practicing it with your children at home or school.